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Pumpkin Chili

Cozy Up with This Hearty Pumpkin Chili Recipe

This Hearty Pumpkin Chili, a delightful fusion of pumpkin puree and spicy Italian sausage, is a perfect comfort food for autumn.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with canola oil or avocado oil.
  • 1 pound Ground Spicy Italian Sausage Ground turkey or vegan sausage works for a lighter option.
  • 1 Onion Use shallots or leeks for a milder taste.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Any bell pepper or jalapeño can be used.
  • 3 Garlic Cloves Fresh garlic is best.
For the Flavor
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin No direct substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Powder Can mix paprika with cayenne as an alternative.
  • to taste Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper Adjust for perfect seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Nutmeg can also work well.
For the Chili Texture
  • 1 can Fire-Roasted Tomatoes Canned for brightness.
  • 1 can Kidney Beans Canned or interchangeable with pinto beans.
  • 1 can Black Beans Canned or interchangeable with navy beans.
  • 1 can Pumpkin Puree Fresh pumpkin can be used but requires effort.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth for vegetarian option.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Pumpkin Chili Instructions
  1. In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground spicy Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add 1 chopped onion and 1 diced red bell pepper to the leftover drippings. Sauté over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and add 1 can of fire-roasted tomatoes, 1 can each of kidney beans and black beans, 1 can of pumpkin puree, and 2 cups of chicken broth. Mix well.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve hot in bowls and garnish with toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, or pumpkin seeds.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 4mg

Notes

For the best flavor, let your chili rest overnight in the fridge. This allows flavors to deepen beautifully.

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